FEDA invests in strawberry production to boost Jarabacoa’s economy
Image: Pexels
Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Republic’s strawberry production is rapidly growing, with the government dedicating resources to support its expansion, particularly in key areas like Jarabacoa, Constanza, Ocoa, Hondo Valle, and Azua. Jarabacoa, known for its favorable climate, has become a prime location for strawberry farming. To further boost productivity and profitability, the government, through the Special Fund for Agricultural Development (FEDA), has introduced a project involving 20 Macrotunnels, valued at 9.8 million pesos. These tunnels, spanning over 12.5 square meters, help protect crops, conserve water, and reduce pest issues.
The project was delivered to the Jarabacoa Strawberry Producers Association, which represents over 60 active members.
The support for strawberry farmers has been strengthened since the administration of President Luis Abinader, with the addition of a refrigerated collection center and now the installation of Macrotunnels. In 2023, the Dominican Republic exported over 134 million kilos of fruit, and the government’s goal for 2024 is to exceed 200 million kilos. As part of this effort, FEDA is working to support strawberry producers nationwide, including the annual National Strawberry Festival in Constanza, which celebrates the country’s strawberry industry.
First of all, the producers should learn not to pick strawberries when they are still green. The kind of strawberries that are sold in the supermarkets here are really disgraceful. Sour, hard and tasteless. Not at all like the ones on this foto.